Pizza, Pigs, and Poetry: How to Write a Poem

I bought this book several months ago but just read it today.  Written by Jack Prelutsky, this cross between an autobiography, poetry how to, and funny, family  anectdotals, is a rare find.  Mr. Prelutsky opens his childhood memory box and allows his readers to understand where his inspiration for stories originate.  Not only does he share what gave him the idea for each of the poems in this book, he gives a craft lesson as well.  He somehow manages to do all of this great teaching within a simple framework that will have students and adults laughing until they cry.  Interspersed throughout the book, he slides in statements about revision and never giving up on a piece of writing.  Mr. Prelutsky repeatedly shares the importance of a writers notebook and makes writing seem very much like a guy thing to do.  Overall, a great book that I highly recommend.

Grade Recommendation:  Some of the vocabulary can be tough at times but if a student has strategies for handling unfamiliar words, then this charming book would do well with students from second grade through eighth grade.  It's really ageless since it is an adult making reference to (and making fun of)  his childhood, students of most ages will be able to connect and identify with the stories.

Read Aloud Discussion:  A perfect read aloud while introducing poetry or writers workshop.  Definitely inspiring students to write while entertaining them at the same time.

Mentor Text:  As mentioned in the read aloud comments, this book is a perfect introduction to both poetry and writer's workshop.  I plan to use it this next year while introducing writer's workshop.  We may revisit it again during our poetry unit.